Acacia longifolia (Golden Wattle) - A fast-growing bushy shrub or small tree to 20 feet tall and as wide. Long light green leaves and fragrant round, golden yellow flowers appear in winter to early spring along end of branches. Salt tolerant so a useful for seaside conditions. Frost and drought resistant - hardy to 20 degrees F. Use as a screen or windbreak; often seen as freeway plantings but this plant should not be planted adjacent to natural areas, particularly near riparian or dune areas as there is potential for this plant to invade these areas. This plant was originally collected along the South-eastern coast of Australia by Joseph Banks who was the botanist on the James Cook's exploration of Australia in 1770 and was offered by nurseries in England as early as 1788 and was introduced into cultivation in California by William Walker at his Golden Gate Nursery in San Francisco in 1860. It has naturalized in many other places and has become invasive in other parts of Australia (Victoria, New South Wales), in New Zealand, South Africa, Spain, Portugal, Brazil and on disturbed sites in California. The name Acacia comes either from the Greek word 'akazo' meaning "to sharpen" or from the Egyptian word 'akakia', a name given to the Egyptian Thorn, Acacia arabica.
This description is based on our research and observations made of this plant as it grows in our nursery, in the nursery garden and in other gardens that we have visited. We will also incorporate comments received from others and always appreciate getting feedback of any kind from those who have some additional information about this plant, in particular if this information is contrary to what we have written or if they have additional cultural tips that would aid others in growing Acacia longifolia.